The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.
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Day 2: |
Gear up for a kayaking adventure on the scenic Slide Lake, formed in 1925 by a massive earthquake.
(Monday, August 26)
Note: 4:1 instructor to participant ratio enables the program to accommodate all skill levels. Travel through the National Parks will be in vans provided by the kayak school. Come prepared to savor and appreciate your time traveling, as this is part of the discovery. Every moment offers splendid views and unexpected encounters as you explore fragments of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem's 28,000 square miles.
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| Breakfast: | Deluxe Complimentary breakfast at the hotel | | Morning: | Back to Rendezvous River Sports to gear up for a kayaking adventure on the scenic Slide Lake. The morning drive will take you past the National Elk Refuge, into Grand Teton National Park and up the Gros Ventre River. Look for bison and moose along the way and of course, the spectacular views of the Teton and Gros Ventre Ranges. Slide Lake was formed in 1925 by the cataclysmic collapse of the north slope of Sheep Mountain. The slide path and debris are still clearly visible along the Gros Ventre River to the natural dam that created the lake. Once at the water, your instructor will double check the fit of your kayak to make sure you are comfortable for the days paddle. Individualized instruction on water safety and basic paddle strokes will begin. For those with paddling experience the focus will be on refining technique and possibly some advanced skills. Views of surrounding forest, the red rock of the Gros Ventre Range and the peaks of the Tetons will compete for your attention as you cicumnavigate Slide Lake. As you paddle the lake the the instructors will offer interpretation of natural history and some of the truly unique geological features of this impressive backdrop. Kayakers of all levels will appreciate the personalized instruction and being immersed in the natural world that surrounds them. | | Lunch: | Deli lunches at Slide Lake | | Afternoon: | Continued paddling on Slide Lake while allowing time to stop and enjoy some of the sights of both the Gros Ventre Mountains and Grad Teton National Park on the return to Jackson. | | Dinner: | Dinner on your own | | Evening: | Free evening to enjoy beautiful Jackson, WY. | |
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Day 5: |
All participants will continue paddling the river: optional whitewater kayaking.
(Thursday, August 29)
Note: 4:1 instructor to participant ratio enables the program to accommodate all skill levels
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| Breakfast: | Deluxe Continental Breakfast | | Morning: | The Snake River will again provide the venue for the days kayaking adventure. Everyone will have the choice of either paddling another beautiful section of scenic Class II moving water or those who are feeling more adventuresome and comfortable with their skills will have the opportunity to try whitewater kayaking. Regardless of your choice it will be a great day on the river. The scenic option begins near Wilson, WY and travels through 12 miles of braids with views of the Tetons, Snake River and Gros Ventre Ranges. This stretch has bountiful birding and wildlife. Bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, and blue herons are seen regularly, as well as sightings of moose, elk, deer, beaver and river otters. The whitewater option will take adventurous paddlers along the Alpine Canyon stretch of the Snake, which is World famous for its super fun, yet fairly forgiving rapids. This experience will offer the challenge of paddling through Double Draw, Hair Cut Rock, Cut Banks, Blind Canyon, Big Kahuna, Lunch Counter, Rope, Champagne, and Cottonwood. | | Lunch: | Regardless of which option is chosen, all will enjoy a well earned riverside lunch along the way. | | Afternoon: | Individual skill levels will be accommodated on both scenic or whitewater options as guides continue to direct the kayakers on their last day of adventure on the glorious river. Congratulations everyone! | | Dinner: | Closing dinner and good-byes at local restaurant | | Evening: | Last evening to enjoy beautiful Jackson, WY | |
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Free Time Opportunities |
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| Jackson, WY |
Alpine Slide
Snow King Resort, three blocks from the Town Square, offers the Alpine Slide, winding down 2,500 feet through the woods and wildflowers of Snow King Mountain. Ride the double chairlift to the top of Snow King Mountain; control your own speed; no special skills require. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholewy.com/s-activities-alpine-slide.php
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Center for the Arts
The Center for the Arts provides a permanent home for local arts organizations, educational activities and other community gatherings in Jackson Hole arts, dance, film, writers, symphony and theatre at 240 South Glenwood. Tel: (307) 733-8956. For additional information, visit www.jhcenterforthearts.org
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Cowboy Up Hang Gliding
Cowboy Up Hang Gliding, LLC, is certified through the U.S. Hang Gliding Association with USHGA certified Advanced Instructors and Advanced Tandem Instructors with over 34 years of Hang Gliding Experience who love teaching people how to fly. Professional instruction from beginner to advanced. Tel: (307) 344-4164. For additional information, visit www.cuhanggliding.com
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Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
A scenic ride up Rendezvous Mountain to an elevation of 10,450. Expect fun, goose bumps and spectacular views of Jackson Hole and surrounding mountain ranges. Bring a jacket. Tel: (888) 838-6606. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholewy.com/s-activities-aerial-tram.php
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Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce
Provides general information about the Jackson and Jackson Hole area. Jackson, a unique western-style community offers specialty shopping, art galleries, after-dinner "cowboy shoot-out" and numerous restaurants For additional information, visit www.jacksonholechamber.com/
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Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum
Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum is committed to preserving the history of Jackson and the valley known as Jackson Hole. Exhibits, library of Western Americana, archival resources and publications reflect Yellowstone and Teton National Parks' influence in the economic and physical development of Jackson Hole. Resources include over 7,000 historic photographs from the Jackson Hole and Teton National Park areas. The museum is located one block from the historic Town Square at 105 North Glenwood. (307) 733-2414. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholehistory.org
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Jackson Hole Playhouse
Live dinner theatre is offered one block west of the Town Square at the Jackson Hole Playhouse, which is lodged in the oldest framed building in Jackson — built in 1916. 135 West Deloney. Tel: (307) 733-6944. For additional information, visit www.jhplayhouse.com
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Jackson National Fish Hatchery
Established in 1950 as part of the Palisades Dam Act, the hatchery today focuses on producing eggs and fish to cover fish losses on Federal water projects and for states, tribes and research facilities. It is located on the Fish & Wildlife Service's National Elk Refuge and is part of their National Broodstock Program.
For additional information, visit www.fws.gov/jackson/
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National Museum of Wildlife Art
Housing an internationally acclaimed collection of sculpture, paintings and photography -all devoted to wildlife- the museum includes permanent and changing exhibits, Children's Discovery Gallery, library, museum shop and the Rising Sage Cafe. For additional information, visit www.wildlifeart.org/Frame_HomePage.cfm
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Off Square Theatre
A vibrant center for intimate professional theatre located — one block off the Town Square at the Mainstage Theatre, 50 West Broadway. Tel: (307) 733 3021. For additional information, visit www.offsquare.org
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Restaurant Listings
A selection of restaurants available in Jackson Hole. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholechamber.com/dining_food/restaurants.php
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Shopping
Chamber of Commerce's list of local merchants. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholechamber.com/retailers/antiques.php
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Snow King Mountain
Snow King Resort, three blocks from the Town Square, offers the Alpine Slide, winding down 2500 feet through the woods and wildflowers of Snow King Mountain. Ride the double chairlift to the top of Snow King Mountain; control your own speed; no special skills required. Tel: (888) 838-6606. For additional information, visit www.jacksonholewy.com/s-activities-alpine-slide.php
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Taxi Service Information
Taxi transportation is available at Flying T Taxi. A 24-hour transportation company offering taxi service anywhere, shuttle service to trailheads, rivers, wilderness areas and park tours. 128 E. Hansen. Tel: (307) 690-4141. For additional information, visit www.flyingttaxi.com
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Teton Mountain Bike Tours
A half-day bike tour for any ability level. Tel: (800) 733-0788. For additional information, visit www.tetonmtbike.com/tours.htm
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Under the Willow Photography Gallery
Under the Willow Photo Gallery offers a generous variety of scenic and wildlife photography and more. Located at 50 South Cache — one block off the Town Square. Tel: (307) 733-6633. For additional information, visit www.underthewillow.com
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Suggested Reading List
For Everything There Is A Season: The Sequence of Natural Events In The Grand Teton- Yellowstone Area.
Author: Frank C. Craighead
Description: Dr. Craighead describes and illustrates the hidden patterns he sees in the natural world. For naturalists, this book is a remarkable chronicle of the interrelationships between all living things. For anyone interested in the Teton-Yellowstone area and the entire Northern Rockies, this book opens the door to greater understanding of the natural cycles of one of America's last wild places.
Rising from the Plains
Author: John McPhee
Description: Few nature writers are as vivid or compelling as John McPhee. A great storyteller and reporter, here he profiles U.S. Geological Survey scientist Davis Love while simultaneously writing a sophisticated, elegant and accessible description of the geology of Wyoming and, by extension, the northern Rockies. The personal history of David Love and his family is interwoven with Wyoming’s geologic past. Appreciate pioneer history and the hidden wonders that fill a magnificent land. (Also available on Audio Cassette Books on Tape; ISBN: 5553662311)
Watching Yellowstone and Teton Wildlife: The Best Places to Look From Roads and Trails
Author: Todd Wilkinson and Michael L. Francis
Description: Pack this guidebook, along with your binoculars and enthusiasm, when visiting both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The authors identify numerous viewing areas for optimum wildlife watching and have included maps, color photographs, samples of animal tracks, driving tours, hikes and animal descriptions including behavioral information.
Creation of the Teton Landscape: A Geological Chronicle of Jackson Hole and the Teton Range
Author: David Love, John Reed and Kenneth Pierce
Description: Text illustrated with photographs, maps, charts, tables. Three geologists, all with personal and professional ties to the area, describe and illustrate the processes that created the incredible landscape of Jackson Hole and the Teton Range. Find out about earth shaping geologic processes - fire, ice and shifting tectonic plates. Intriguing table of contents highlights include Teton Views (astronaut, pilot, motorist, hiker), the Restless Land, Stories the Earth Tells, After the Ice Ages, the Present and the Future.
Windows into the Earth: The Geologic Story of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Author: Robert B. Smith and Lee J. Siegel
Description: Find out about the forces that shaped and continue to shape the Greater Yellowstone-Teton region. Illustrations and driving tours of both parks help visitors enjoy and understand the Earth's creative forces in this wondrous region.
Yellowstone and the Great West: Journals, Letters and Images from the 1871 Hayden Expedition
Author: Marlene Deahl Merril, editor
Description: Daily record of Ferdinand Hayden's historic 1871 scientific expedition to the Yellowstone basin. This expedition's findings influenced Congress to establish Yellowstone as the world's first national park. The expedition made many scientific discoveries as well as producing the earliest on-site images of Yellowstone by photographer, William Henry Jackson, and guest artist, Thomas Moran.
The Sibley Guide to Birds
Author: David Allen Sibley
Description: Sibley, a talented painter, offers this wonderful, data-packed color guide with range maps and detailed descriptions of songs and calls. This book is perfect for field trips with short walks and may be too heavy for some to take to the field in which case it can await back in the car.
Searching for Yellowstone: Ecology and Wonder in the Last Wilderness
Author: Paul Schullery
Description: Eloquent, elegant, truthful and practical - an environmental history of America's best idea, Yellowstone.
Paddling Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
Author: Don Nelson.
Description: Here, for the first time, canoeists and kayakers can find helpful itineraries for exploring the large lakes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Information includes park regulations, permits required, location of campsites, how to prepare for day or overnight trips and proper safety.
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